Will My Baby Have A Gap In Her Teeth
As a parent, you may wonder about a lot of things related to your baby's growth and development. One of the questions that may cross your mind is whether your baby will have a gap in her teeth. This is a common concern among parents, and in this article, we will explore the factors that may contribute to the appearance of a gap in your baby's teeth.
What Causes Gaps in Teeth?
Gaps in teeth, also known as diastema, can occur for various reasons. One of the most common reasons is genetics. If you or your partner have a gap in your teeth, there's a high chance that your baby may inherit this trait.
Another reason for gaps in teeth is the size of the teeth and the jaw. If your baby's teeth are too small for her jaw, there may be gaps between the teeth. Similarly, if the jaw is too big for the teeth, there may be spaces between them.
Thumb sucking can also contribute to gaps in teeth. When babies suck their thumbs, they may push their teeth forward, causing gaps to appear.
When Do Teeth Start to Develop?
Babies start developing teeth in the womb, but they don't emerge until several months after birth. The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth.
By the time your baby is three years old, she will have a full set of 20 primary teeth. These teeth will eventually fall out to make way for permanent teeth, which will start to emerge around the age of six.
Can Gaps in Teeth Be Fixed?
If your baby has gaps in her teeth, you may wonder if they can be fixed. The good news is that in most cases, gaps in teeth will close on their own as the permanent teeth emerge.
If the gaps are caused by thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, you can try to discourage these habits to prevent further gaps from forming.
If the gaps are caused by genetics or the size of the teeth and jaw, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment. This may involve braces or other dental appliances to help close the gaps and align the teeth.
How Can I Take Care of My Baby's Teeth?
Even though your baby's primary teeth will eventually fall out, it's important to take care of them to prevent dental problems and ensure that her permanent teeth come in correctly.
You can start taking care of your baby's teeth as soon as they start to emerge. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste to brush her teeth twice a day. You can also start flossing between her teeth once a day when two teeth touch.
Avoid giving your baby sugary drinks or snacks, as these can lead to tooth decay. Instead, offer her healthy foods and drinks, such as water and milk.
Conclusion
Gaps in teeth are a common concern among parents, but in most cases, they will close on their own as the permanent teeth emerge. If the gaps are causing problems, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment. To prevent dental problems, it's important to take care of your baby's teeth from an early age.